The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has issued a travel alert warning travellers that Italy’s Mount Etna has been erupting with increasing frequency.
It comes after tourists suffered minor injuries at the active volcano in Sicily.
“Take care if you’re near any active volcano and follow local advice,” the FCO said.
A BBC camera crew on the mountain filmed a big explosion which pelted a group with boiling rocks and steam.
About eight people were injured and some had to be evacuated by mountain rescue teams after lava flow mixed with steam triggered the blast.
According to BBC science reporter Rebecca Morelle, a volcanologist at the scene said it was the most dangerous incident he had seen in his 30-year-career.
A guide suffered a dislocated shoulder and an elderly woman had been very close to the blast, but managed to get away safely, said the BBC report.
Travellers are advised to visit the Italian Civil Protection website for more information.
